Managing coughs with natural remedies

Coughs will normally get better on their own when given rest and time. If your cough is bothering you, most coughs can be managed with simple self-care steps. 

• encourage rest and drink plenty of warm fluids, such as herbal teas

• honey can act to soothe the throat and is suitable for anybody over the age of one year

• use a humidifier to ease dryness

• vapour rubs can be applied to the chest and back

• a productive (chesty) cough should not be suppressed. Instead, mucus-dissolving agents are recommended.

If a cough lingers for more than a couple of weeks, or if symptoms worsen, it’s best to check in with a healthcare professional for advice.

Herbal cough mixtures

Herbal cough mixtures have become a popular choice for families looking for gentle, natural relief. Unlike some traditional cough syrups that rely on synthetic ingredients, herbal mixtures use plant based extracts, such as ivy leaf, thyme, or liquorice root, that work naturally with the body to calm irritation and support healthy lung function. These remedies often act as expectorants, helping to loosen phlegm so it can be coughed up more easily, while also soothing sore or inflamed tissues in the throat.

Studies show herbal options can be particularly helpful in reducing cough frequency and promoting comfort without causing drowsiness or dryness, which are common side effects of some chemical formulations.